Elle Roberts-Nissen, Head of Events:

• Encourage positive work environments
• Strengthen and build relationships
• Develop business leads

It’s no secret that we are all enjoying the opportunities to be out and about at face-to-face events and business meetings. The networking opportunities provided by both types of events give us all the chance to showcase people and businesses in a comfortable environment where we can be more personable and establish genuine connections. But business events which have the aim of fostering successful relationships don’t have to be repetitive, boring, stuffy affairs. Corporate hospitality can range from intimate dining experiences to wine tastings, experience days and much more.
Three reasons why companies should consider corporate hospitality are:

1. Boost morale

Corporate hospitality doesn’t just have to have a positive impact on relationships with clients but can also make your teams and colleagues feel valued. By including your team in client hospitality events, they will feel included and appreciated, which will ultimately lead to people being more productive in the workplace. By having more of an informal face time with clients and customers, team members will also grow in confidence; after all, humans thrive on human interactions. 

2. Strengthen and build relationships 

Taking the time to get to know your clients and customers on a personal basis makes business feel less transactional and allows relationships to flourish. Not only a way to strengthen relationships, corporate hospitality can also help to retain business too. By showing customers appreciation for their business forms stronger bonds, trust and memorable experiences, creating loyal customers who return for exceptional service and partnerships. 

3. Increase new business opportunities  

Finding new business opportunities can be daunting, especially when you are attending a number of general networking events throughout the year or sending ‘cold’ emails. Consider incorporating corporate hospitality into your new business strategy and collating a target list and inviting each of these companies along to tailor-made corporate hospitality events. It’s a good way to introduce potential clients to the team and the business and demonstrate company values, culture and expertise. 

So, what are our top tips on how to approach corporate hospitality? Firstly, make sure each event is tailored to each client, this will show thoughtfulness. Secondly, keep them small and intimate, the whole point of organising the event is to give time to build relationships. And, finally, ensure you have a running order to give you the time to spend on what matters most: bonding over activities and having meaningful conversations. 

If you are looking for tailor-made corporate hospitality packages, we would love to help. We will work with you to create bespoke and seasonal events that will ‘wow’ every time. Get in touch to find out more.